Brisbane's hooker position is set for a crowded contest in 2027, with Cory Paix determined to retain the No.9 role despite his recovery from shoulder surgery.
The 26-year-old started in 2026 until surgery after round 22, having played most of the season with an anterior labrum tear that extended around the back of his shoulder.
"Yeah, it was tough. I played most of the year with a busted shoulder, so it was just a matter of getting on with it and turning up for my teammates and for this club," he said.
Coach Michael Maguire arranged the operation once Brisbane could no longer progress in the competition. Paix is now training on a modified program and expects to be ready for round one.
He said he had initially been stubborn about the injury, which became clear after a break and a scan. Surgeons stitched the torn labrum.
Billy Walters returned late in the season from an ACL rupture and impressed, while Ben Hunt can play hooker but wants to be a halfback. Hunt has also filled the role for Queensland and Australia.
Cameron Bukowski joins the top squad in 2027 after an impressive debut last year, and is training again following wrist surgery. Blake Mozer is contracted for 2027, though his future could be elsewhere if he finds a suitable deal.
Paix said the competition was welcome and wants Brisbane to rebound from 14th and become title contenders again.
"I'm very determined to get this club back on track. We talk about sustained success, and it starts now with all of the attitude and turning up to win every day."